Workplace accidents can result in stressful, debilitating physical and emotional impairments. Victims of these injuries often incur extensive medical bills and lost wages. If you were hurt on the job, you have a right to seek compensation.
Common Workplace Injuries
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics tracks work-related injuries. In 2020, private employers across the country reported 2.1 million non-fatal workplace injuries, and nearly 1.2 million employees missed one or more days of work. Additional data compiled by the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention and the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health indicates that trauma accounts for three of the top five types of non-fatal work injuries:
- Slip, trip, and fall accidents.
- “Struck-by” accidents (from work equipment and objects).
- Motor vehicle accidents.
- Overexertion.
- Respiratory causes.
What Is Workers’ Compensation Insurance?
Workers’ compensation is a type of insurance that protects both employer and employee in the event of a workplace injury. In exchange for not suing the employer, victims of workplace injuries are compensated for associated medical expenses and a portion of lost wages.
Unlike personal injury cases, workers’ comp cases do not require the employee to prove who is at fault. However, if negligence contributed to your workplace injury, you may be able to obtain additional compensation. This is one of the many reasons it is essential to work with a Fayetteville workers’ comp attorney if you’ve been injured in a workplace accident.
Benefits for Fayetteville Workplace Injury Victims
Following an on-the-job injury, you are likely entitled to workers’ compensation benefits. However, navigating workers’ comp law and determining whether you are entitled to additional compensation can be complex and frustrating. Even minor errors on the workers’ comp application can lead to delayed or denied benefits.
Hiring a seasoned workers’ comp attorney will ensure your application is filled out accurately and completely the first time. Your attorney will also protect your rights and best interests and help you recover additional compensation if negligence played a role in your injury or illness.
At Ricci Law Firm, our Fayetteville work injury attorneys will remain by your side throughout the entire process so you can heal physically and emotionally and obtain maximum compensation. We will help you get the medical treatment you need while gathering medical records, accident reports, and other documentation to maximize your benefits.
Under the state’s workers’ compensation program, employees are entitled to medical treatment for any injuries or illnesses sustained during the course of their employment. In addition, disability benefits are designed to compensate injured workers for two-thirds of their average weekly wage while unable to work. Not all employers are required to carry workers’ compensation, but many are. An experienced North Carolina workers’ comp lawyer can review your case, determine your rights and options, and help you obtain full benefits promptly.
Eligibility for Workers’ Compensation in Fayetteville, North Carolina
To determine if you are eligible for workers’ comp benefits after a workplace injury, it is in your best interest to consult with a local attorney immediately. This is especially true if your employer denies your benefits claim. Although every case is different, you are likely eligible for workers’ comp benefits if you can answer “yes” to these questions:
- Did your injury occur in the course of employment?
- Did you report this injury to your employer within 30 days or less?
- Does the company you work for have at least three employees?
- Does your employer carry workers’ compensation insurance?
As a no-fault insurance system, workers’ comp benefits are not contingent on another’s negligence. If you sustained the injury or illness during the course of work, you are likely entitled to benefits.
If your employer denies benefits to which you are entitled, or they have failed to carry the required workers’ comp insurance, it is critical to seek immediate legal representation. Employers subject to workers’ compensation laws but do not have coverage face penalties and hefty fines. Furthermore, if you are unsure whether your employer must carry workers’ comp insurance, an accomplished attorney can help you determine how to proceed.
Contact Ricci Law Firm’s Injury Lawyers Today
Those injured on the job have a legal right to seek compensation. But obtaining that compensation can be stressful and time-consuming when you should be focused on healing. Let our skilled, tenacious workers’ comp team handle the heavy lifting for you. We will do everything possible to maximize your benefits, expedite your recovery, and help you get your life back on track. Contact Ricci Law Firm today for a free and confidential consultation about your case.